The Royal Family’s Holiday Dressing: A Timeless Tradition
Based in Los Angeles, royal style expert Elizabeth Holmes is the author of the New York Times bestseller HRH: So Many Thoughts on Royal Style. In this guest column for HELLO!, Holmes explores the timeless tradition of holiday dressing in the British royal family. From the late Queen Elizabeth II to the current Princess of Wales, Catherine, she delves into the exceptional Christmas fashion showcased by the Windsors over the years.
Christmas Fashion: A Royal Tradition
Nobody does holiday dressing quite like the British royal family. The Windsors have long been known for their exceptional Christmas fashion, with the late Queen Elizabeth II setting the tone for many Christmas mornings walks in Sandringham.
Princess Kate’s Iconic Choices
As Princess of Wales, Catherine is now leading the way with her stunning holiday outfits. Whether it’s a stunning coat dress for her annual carol concert, something warm and textured for church on Christmas Day, or a casual puffer coat when picking out trees with families in need, Kate has mastered the style of the season.
Casual in Buckinghamshire (2019)
One of Princess Kate’s best holiday outfits was her casual Christmas-themed attire at Peterley Manor Farm in Buckinghamshire in 2019. She embraced the festive spirit with a red puffer coat by Perfect Moment paired with a bright green sweater by Really Wild for a charity event, perfectly capturing the holiday spirit in a welcoming and obvious manner.
Smart Tartan at Sandringham (2017)
In 2017, while pregnant with Prince Louis, Kate chose a double-breasted tartan coat by Miu Miu for the Christmas Day church service at Sandringham, adding a festive touch to her look during what was such a joyful occasion.
Coordinating with Charlotte in Bucklebury (2016)
Kate’s ability to coordinate her outfit with family members was on display during the 2016 church service at St. Mark’s. She re-wore a deep brown Hobbs coat and added a new burgundy collar from ASOS, offering a little festive texture and demonstrating her practical yet stylish approach to holiday dressing.
A Red Scarf in Cardiff (2020)
In 2020, Kate brought some Christmas cheer to a visit to Cardiff, Wales, by re-wearing an Alexander McQueen coat for a hospital visit, under which she wore an Emilia Wickstead tartan skirt. Her coordinating scarf, mask, and accessories added a festive touch that brightened up the holiday season for all those around her.
Subtle Tribute to Queen Elizabeth (2022)
Christmas 2022 was the first since the death of Queen Elizabeth II, and Kate’s outfit for the annual carol concert held a special meaning. Her deep burgundy coat dress by Eponine London paid a tasteful tribute to the late Queen, adding a thoughtful and heartfelt touch to her holiday fashion.
The Royal Family’s Art of Dressing for the Holidays
Before delving into Princess Kate’s best holiday outfits, be sure to check out Elizabeth Holmes’ interview on The HELLO! Royal Club on Substack, where she discusses the royal family’s art of dressing for the holiday season. Holmes offers unparalleled insights into the timeless tradition of holiday dressing in the royal family.
